Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Benefits

The Ylang Ylang tree or Cananga odorata is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, and is much valued for the exotic fragrance of its flowers. The tree belongs to the family Annonaceae, and can grow to a height of around 40 feet. Its glossy green leaves are oval in shape with pointed tips.

The tree produces star-shaped, drooping flowers. The petals are long and greenish-yellow. It is from the fresh flowers of the ylang ylang tree, that different grades of essential oil are produced through the process of steam distillation.

This oil is clear with a yellowish hue and medium consistency. It has various chemical components, like geranyl acetate, p-cresyl methyl ether, linalool, benzyl acetate, methyl benzoate, caryophyllene, benzyl benzoate, and sesquiterpenes. It is one of the popular and widely used essential oils in aromatherapy. It has a soothing and calming effect.

It is among the popular essential oils that possess antidepressant properties. Ylang ylang oil has been used through the centuries, for fighting depression and anxiety. It is used to treat people with a nervous breakdown, as it is believed that the oil is ideal for uplifting one's mood.

In fact, Indonesians have an age-old practice of spreading ylang ylang flowers on the bed of newlywed couples.

It is said that this oil is effective in regulating production of sebum, and so is used in treating the skin disorder called seborrhea or seborrheic eczema.

This oil is one of the active ingredients in 'macassar oil', which is a popular hair care product.

It is claimed that this oil can boost the health of nerves. It is also used for treating intestinal infections. It is also used as a hypotensive, as it is found effective in lowering high blood pressure.

Even though, there is no scientific evidence to prove the effectiveness of its health benefits, this essential oil is very popular and is widely used. As in case of any other essential oil, ylang ylang oil also must be used in very small quantities.

You can use this oil in burners or diffusers. It is also good as a blended massage oil or bath oil. Ylang ylang essential oil blends well with most of the similar oils, but grapefruit, bergamot, lavender, and sandalwood are the most suitable ones.

Even though it is considered safe, this oil may cause side effects, like nausea, headache, and sensitivity. You must consult a qualified herbal practitioner for internal use of ylang ylang oil.

Disclaimer: This story is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert advice.